Meatless Mondays Can Be Tasty

As a CrossFitter and avid supporter of eating meat {read: bacon}, it’s hard for me to get on the vegetarian band-wagon. That being said, I also realize the impact raising meat has on the environment and so do a lot of other people. Solution: Meatless Mondays.

Since around the time of WWI, the Food Administration encouraged Americans to consume less daily staples to contribute to the war efforts, meat being included. The population complied and realized they felt not only not terrible by eating less, but actually felt better overall. The trend lasted through WWII but fizzled out soon thereafter when everything once again became readily available.

A revival in 2003 was led by Sid Lerner, in association with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, with the idea to promote healthier living. It has since taken off in popularity with celebrities, politicians, chefs, restaurants and even entire cities participating. Countries including Brazil, Israel, Australia, France and so many more have also adopted the practice. See the entire list here.

I’m all for promoting sustainability and think Meatless Mondays are a great and easy way to do your part. Food & Wine, also promoters of the movement, have come up with 13 mouth-watering hamburger alternatives that will make you want to have meatless-months. Check out the complete slideshow here, but these are my favorites.

The Black Bean Burger

Veggie Burger with Pomegranate Ketchup

Oat Cakes & Spinach with Horseradish Sauce

Corn & Shitake Fritters

Four Cheese-Stuffed Portobellos

Which ones will you try first? Will this be your first Meatless Monday meal? Please share and tell me what was the best! 🙂